Russian footballers should learn from Brazilians – Medvedev

Russian football will reach new heights with the help of Brazilian coaches says Dmitry Medvedev. The Russian President was talking during his first official visit to Brazil.

“Russia has a great deal to learn from Brazil, where football is indeed part of religion, not just part of the culture or sport. This is a very important aspect of our humanitarian co-operation,” he said.

Dmitry Medvedv has visited the biggest stadium in Latin America, Maracana and played football for a couple of minutes there. He also bought the t-shirt of Brazilian national team for his son.

“We do pin our hopes on the Brazilian football schools which have opened near Moscow and in Krasnodar Region. Of course, Russia will not gain the results Brazil has achieved in football quickly. But, hopefully, Brazilian coaches will finally help Russia football to reach new heights,” he added.

Two Brazilian football schools opened in Russia in 2006. They teach the local kids to play like the stars, like Ronaldinho, Kaka and Robinho.

Many Brazilians play in the Russian Premier League, including this season’s top scorer Wagner Love.